Object TypeA stereograph is a pair of photographic images of the same subject taken from slightly different angles. This gives the illusion of a single three-dimensional image when viewed through a stereoscope designed to hold it. Sometimes, as here, stereographs were coloured by hand in paints or inks to make them more enticing and life-like.

Ownership & UseStereographs were mass-produced. Viewing them was a popular amusement carried out in the home from the 1850s until the early 20th century.

Subject DepictedIn this image a bride is seen looking into an ornate, gilded mirror. Only the reflection of her face is visible. It is a depiction of a presumably private moment which we might not normally expect to see. However, the camera has allowed us to spy on this event. Domestic, moral or private scenes were typical subjects of popular stereographs.

Physical description

Stereograph depicting 'A bride at her looking glass'.

Place of Origin

Britain (made)

Date

1855-1860 (made)

Artist/maker

Elliott, James (maker)
Underwood & Underwood (publishers)

Materials and Techniques

Albumen print mounted on glass

Dimensions

Height: 8.4 cm, Width: 17.4 cm

Object history note

Stereoscope made by Underwood & Underwood, New York, USA; stereographs by James Elliott (British, active 1850s-1880s)

Descriptive line

Stereograph by James Elliott depicting 'A bride at her looking glass'. Great Britain, ca. 1855-60.

Labels and date

British Galleries:
STEREOSCOPE AND STEREOGRAPHS

Various dates, 1854-1901

This stereoscope is typical of those used in Victorian homes for education and amusement. Stereographs (paired photographs taken from slightly different angles) were placed in the holder and then adjusted until the viewer saw the scene in three dimensions. [27/03/2003]